Effect of exposure to high temperatures in the excretion of cadmium and lead

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to observe the effect on urine and sweat excretion levels of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in healthy men in a maximum incremental test until exhaustion and repeated exposure to heat. Methods: twenty-nine adult men divided into control group (CG; n ¼ 14) and experimental group (EG; n ¼ 15) performing two maximum tests until exhaustion in normothermia (22 �C) and hyperthermia (42 �C). EG experienced 9 sessions of heat exposure at high temperatures (100 �C) (HEHT). After the nine sessions, the initial tests were repeated in both groups. Urine samples were collected before and after each test. After the hyperthermia tests, sweat samples were gathered. Results: Urinary Cd increased after initial tests in GC and in hyperthermia in EG (p < 0.05). Urinary excretion of Pb rose after HEHT (p < 0.05). Pb in sweat was higher in EG than in CG after HEHT (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Heat exercise and constant exposure to heat can be a valid method to increase the excretion of toxic metals.